Audio Processor for Mazda and Toyota

Image having a team of the worlds leading audio processor and acoustic engineers dedicated to tuning your factory car audio system every time you wanted to listen to a new CD or your favourite mobile media player. Most factory fitted audio systems have basic audio processor controls that allow you to adjust the Treble, Bass and some even Mid-tones – however these adjustments won’t ‘cut-it’ if you’re after great sound.

While there is a comprehensive range of aftermarket audio processors available, most are designed to work with aftermarket speakers and amplifiers. The Bongiovi Acoustics Digital Power Station™, designed by the award winning record producer and recording acoustics engineer Tony Bongiovis, is the first 100% digital audio processor system designed to work specifically with your cars factory sound equipment.

So How Does the Audio Processor Work?

When music is originally recorded in a studio, engineers use reference speakers that are facing them at an optimum range, they use this as the reference point while introducing and adjusting instruments and vocals. Whereas in you car, the speakers are typically at your feet and pointing directly at each other or spread all over the cabin, which has a dramatic effect on the audio spectrum and frequency reproduction.

The Bongiovi Acoustic Digital Power Station™ contains a custom profile with 120 calibration points tuned for specific vehicle. Taking into account speaker location and your vehicles particular acoustic characteristics. The Bongiovi engineers have used decades of recording studio experience to determine the best possible frequency response adjustments and frequency specific power distribution of your cars factory head-unit amplifier – effectively remixing and remastering the original track to suit the your vehicle. 

So what does all this mean for your ears?

The Bongiovi audio processor will provide a dramatic improvement in audio reproduction – better bass response, more detailed high frequencies and improved clarity across the entire audio spectrum. The Bongiovi DPS works across your factory AM/FM radio, CD Player, Auxilary In-puts and also improves compressed audio files including Mp3 and AAC files, typically found on portable media players and iPhones/iPods®. It also constantly monitors the audio signal to provide constant volume control across all audio sources and road noise is also counterbalanced with the DPS technology.

Conclusion

So if you drive a current model Toyota or Mazda and want to experience the full sound spectrum, improved dynamics and vocals and don’t want to load your vehicle up with additional amplifiers and speakers. The Bongiovi audio processor is installed completely out-of-sight, maintains all of your factory conveniences and may be just the thing you’re looking for. Contact your nearest CAM specialist and talk to them about what the 100% digital DPS can do for you.

Watch the video to see what has informed the development of the Bongiovi DPS audio processor.

Current models available include Toyota‘s Corolla, FT86, Hilux, Camry, Yaris, Aurion, Landcruiser, RAV4, Kluger, Prado and Mazda’s Mazda 2, Mazda 3, Mazda 6 and BT-50.

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Great NEW Car Apps

In an App-mad world its hardly surprising that major developers of tech products and Apps have joined forces to create ‘Car Apps’ to infiltrate your mobile environment, and we’re not just talking about taking your SmartPhone for a drive either.

Recently companies including Viper, Pioneer and Parrot have released new products into the Australian market that integrate Apps into automotive products. They offer any number of conveniences from traffic data and GPS navigation, to infotainment and safety services – making driving safer, more enjoyable and even more sociable.

Pioneer MIXTRAX – Like a DJ in Your Car

Pioneer has taken their years of experience working with high-end Dj equipment to develop the MIXTRAX App, a proprietary technology. It measures a number of musical attributes, including beats per minute (BPM) and analyses the best point to seamlessly mix and blend your tracks together. Which creates a non-stop mix of your music to create your own personal ‘mobile club’.

Pioneer has also designed a range of mobile entertainment products to utilise the advanced features of MIXTRAX and others Apps through the Advanced AppMode.

Pioneers AVH-X3500DAB is designed to expand your mobile infotainment options with a host of integrated technologies, a 6.1″ high-res screen, AM/FM Tuner, Bluetooth and Advanced AppMode. The range of available Apps is constantly growing and you can make use of the freely available and paid Apps.

NavGate Drive – Turn-by-Turn Navigation App

One of the best car Apps developed for Pioneer AV products is the NavGate Drive App, which lets you enjoy turn-by-turn navigation through New Zealand and Australia. Combine the NavGate App ($79.99AU) with one of Pioneer’s compatible Car AV products and you have the power and convenience of turn-by-turn navigation for a lot less than you would normally expect. 

WAZE App – Crowd Sourced Traffic Data

There is also a range of Radio and Entertainment Apps, plus the tricky little WAZE App that connects you via GPS to other drivers. This enables WAZE to combine all data which allows you to outsmart traffic, save time and petrol, while improving your daily commute! iPhone users will also find a host of familiar Apps including Calendar, Photos and Videos. 

CarBrowser App – Mobile Internet Browser

Finally we have had some fun with the Pioneer CarBrowser App which brings the browsing power of the internet straight into the dashboard of your car. Powered by Opera, the CarBrowser offers a high-speed browsing experience with Data Savings, Speed Dial, Visual Tabs. For extra convenience it can even be synchronised with your desktop PC or other mobile phone. 

Parrot MarketPlace Apps

Parrot recently the expanded their ASTEROID range of products to include the Mini, Smart and Tablet. Which combine the tried and tested functionality of Parrot’s leading Bluetooth technology with expanded possibilities for entertainment and functionality though their dedicated ASTEROID AppMarket.

With a range of dedicated car Apps including Video and Radio for entertainment, Traffic and Weather to keep you informed and Map and Navigation products to get you where you need to be. Parrot has also just announced the arrival of their Facebook App for ASTEROID Tablet and Smart. So now you can see what your friends are up to, share updates, images and videos while on the road, all through the 5″ or 6.2″ Multi-touch screens.

VIPER SmartStart App

What could be cooler than starting your car remotely from your SmartPhone? What if you could also lock your car or pop the boot? Well you can do it all and more with the groundbreaking Viper SmartStart App and associated hardware.

The Viper SmartStart system requires a compatible iOS, Android or Blackberry device, the Viper SmartStart App and either a Viper SmartStart system or a Viper security system with a SmartStart module. Visit your nearest CAM store for a full run down. It’s a great system for that extra peace of mind and has no lock-in contract and a flat annual subscription.

Selling Through Car Apps

You may have seen the new Holden Barina ad that features a range of clever Apps promoted under their Holden MyLink system. Once upon a time it was engine performance or styling features that were used to promote the release of a new vehicle. Now though, with SmartPhones tightly integrated into our daily lives it is a different story.

The Holden MyLink system currently offers a range of Apps including Stitcher™, a Smart Radio App which connects to 5000 radio shows and podcasts. MyLink also includes entertainment Apps like Pandora® and the Siri Eyes Free Mode which allows you to update your Facebook status while driving – safely! Expect to see more car Apps from manufacturers in the very near future.

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VE Commodore Dash Kit (Series 1) by Quasi. Available Nationally from CAM

Available Nationally through CAM, the VE Commodore Dash Kit by Quasi Technologies allows you to replace and upgrade the factory fitted VE Commodore radio while retaining the HVAC and steering wheel controls. The VE Commodore dash kit allows for the installation of most aftermarket 2-DIN multi-media units (Pioneer, Kenwood, JVC and more) with an integrated screen, the kit also includes the vehicle interface for your factory fitted steering wheel and climate controls. 

VE Commodore Dash Kit Specifications

• 2-DIN Dash Kit (suits most popular brands – Pioneer, Kenwood, JVC…)
• Suits Holden VE Commodore Series 1
• OEM Grade

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Opal In Car GPS Navigation For a Perfect Fit

Perfect fit, digital sound quality and a sharp, deep and crystal clear image are all part of the Opal GPS navigation range. Opal are one of Australia’s leading suppliers of OEM replacment GPS navigation and multi-media products. The product range is constantly evolving and the Opal range often features options superior to that offered by the factory dealers at a competitive cost.

Opal products are available nationally through the CAM network of specialist retailers and instalers and come backed with a 3 Year product warranty and the CAM nationwide lifetime installation warranty. Contact your nearest CAM specialist to organise a test-drive.

Opal In Car GPS System – Navigation Key Features

Opal In Car GPS System – Key Specifications

Current Opal GPS Applications (23/03/2103)

• Audi A3
• Cherry J3
• Ford Mondeo
• Ford Fiesta
• Ford Focus
• Great Wall H5
• Holden Captiva 5 Series 2
• Holden Captiva 7 Series 2 / EPICA
• Holden Colorado
• Holden Cruze CD / CDX / STRi
• Holden Barina
• Honda Civic
• Honda Accord Euro
• Honda Accord Wide-Body
• Honda CRV
• Honda CRV 2013
• Hyundai ix35
• Hyundai i45
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Hyundai Accent
• Hyundai Elantra
• Hyundai Veloster
• Hyundai i30 2013
• Hyundai i40 2013
• Jeep Cherokee / Wrangler / Compass Dodge Nitro / Caliber
• Kia Carnival
• Kia Sorento
• Kia Sportage
• Kia Soul
• Kia Optima
• Mazda Mazda 2
• Mazda Mazda 3
• Mazda Mazda 6
• Mazda CX7
• Mazda CX5
• Mitsubishi ASX
• Mitsubishi Lancer
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Mitsubishi Pajero
• Nissan Dualis / Navara / Triton / Patrol / Pathfinder
• Nissan Micra
• Opal Universals Universal Fit
• Opal Universals Universal Japanese Fit
• Skoda Octavia
• Skoda Superb
• Subaru Liberty / Outback
• Subaru Forester / Impreza
• Suzuki Swift
• Suzuki SX4
• Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota HiLux / HiAce / RAV4 / Camry / Altise / Aurion / Corolla
• Toyota Aurion
• Toyota Camry
• Toyota Camry 2012
• Toyota Kluger
• Toyota Landcruiser 200
• Toyota Prado GX
• Toyota Prado GXL
• Toyota Prado GX/GXL 2012
• Volkswagen Golf / Polo / Passat / Eos / Caddy / Amerok / White OSD

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Movies, music and Pioneer MIXTRAX made easy with the Pioneer AVH-X3500DAB.

Watch all the video you want right from the dashboard of your car with this 6.1″ touch screen AV tuner. And you can take your entire music collection on the road – whether from DVD, CD, MP3 or USB, this car tuner is built to play all your tracks from almost any source. 

Pioneer MIXTRAX – AVH-X3500DAB Features

• Play music and movies from CD, DVD, DivX, XviD, WMA, WAV, MP3 and AAC
• Play DVDs at the rear of the car while navigating from the device on the front dashboard. Switching between video and navigation is as easy as pressing a button
• Use the integrated Parrot Bluetooth to make hands-free calls or to stream audio from compatible devices
• The built-in DAB+ tuner lets you explore thousands of new radio stations and additional sources of traffic-related services. You can pause play during calls or skip back to check song titles or repeat a song track. (AN-DAB1 antenna included)
• The rear Aux In and USB input connect your iPod, iPhone or other device while keeping your car free of cable clutter (1 cable included)
• iPod Direct Control lets you manage your iPod/iPhone straight from the CD tuner’s 6.1″ touch screen
• Listen to tunes stored on your Android smartphone* using the USB cable
• The 3 RCA pre-outs let you boost your in-car set-up with additional amps, subs and speakers
• The 8-band graphic equaliser and crossover function match your various devices to the acoustics of your car
• The main menu items, the background image, button lighting and multi-colour WVGA displaycan be customised to your liking
• Pioneer MIXTRAX EZ creates non-stop, club-style mixes from your music, illuminating your dashboard with colour effects based on the beat and mood of each song

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The Audison Bit One and Bit Ten – Designed to take your audio system from ordinary to extraordinary…

AUDISON BIT ONE

The Audison Bit one is a multi-function digital processor capable of interfacing with any analog and/or digital source, turning any ordinary system into one with very high-level performance.

Despite its compact size, the bit one is equipped with a powerful, latest generation 266 MHz / 32 bit floating point DSP microprocessor, working in real time on all the functions of the most complete systems.

Managed and configured by a simple and intuitive computer software, it is possible to make adjustments to improve the signal through each phase of its path; from input to output.

DOWNLOAD AUDISON BIT ONE PDF / DOWNLOAD AUDISON BIT ONE SPEC PDF

AUDISON BIT TEN

bit Ten is a multi-function digital processor featuring analog input, capable of transforming ordinary OEM or after-market system into a high-performance system.

Provided with a 32 bit, 147 MHz clock speed DSP as well as 24 bit A/D and D/A converters, bit Ten is controlled by a software especially developed for signal treatment according to the vehicle acoustic peculiarities.

Setting the parameters of each input single channel, setting the delays according to the listening position, adjusting crossovers and equalizers for each of the 5 output channels; all of these operations can be managed by the PC.

During the installation phase, after converting the analog signal into digital, bit Ten automatically reconstructs a digital full-bandwidth stereo signal; de-equalizes the frequency response and, if necessary, reconstructs the central and subwoofer channels.

The user can configure the output mode of each channel relative to the installed system.

It is designed to be connected with the DRC, Digital Remote Control (optional).

DOWNLOAD AUDISON BIT TEN PDF / DOWNLOAD AUDISON BIT TEN SPEC PDF

AUDISON BIT TEN D

bit Ten D is a multi-function digital processor conceived and built to process digital and analogue signal both on the input and on output to the amplifier (featuring AD Link connection) and create top-performance system with any source typology.

Provided with a 32 bit, 147 MHz clock speed DSP as well as 24 bit A/D and D/A converters, bit Ten D processes the signal with extreme accuracy and wide configurability thanks to a software especially designed for car acoustic peculiarities.

bit Ten D features an optical digital input, minimizing interference and degradations of the signal found in traditional analog interconnects, also by-passing the A/D conversion phases of analog signals.

Thanks to the AD Link connection, the available outputs become 8 in total, all in digital format; they can also be used simultaneously with the analog ones (for a maximum of 8 outputs total).

The AC Link is completely dedicated to the “remote control” of the system. The system is comprised of one connector for the provided DRC and one for the amplifiers present in the system. The DRC is supplied with the bit Ten D product.

DOWNLOAD AUDISON BIT TEN D PDF / DOWNLOAD AUDISON BIT TEN D SPEC PDF

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The Directors of Car Audio Masters understand the importance of offering specialised installer training and technical development in the 12 volt specialist industry is more relevant now than ever.

With the complexity of the 12volt automotive systems, the need to keep a high standard of installation integrity with the required skill set when working on new vehicles is paramount and this type of training allows CAM technicians to be hands on with the latest technology and diagnostic tools. All this is necessary when installing any aftermarket audio system or electrical components to a modern day vehicle.

With the ‘Big Box’ retailers throughout the retail world finding it even more difficult to make the car audio segment a viable category it will be up to the SPECIALIST car audio store to have technicians with the passion and knowledge to make these audio and visual upgrades possible.

It is Car Audio Masters (CAM) goal to move forward in partnership with world’s best industry trainer’s like Bryan Schmitt from Mobile Solutions in Phoenix Arizona to hone CAM member’s skills.

Bryan is a qualified MECP master technician from the U.S.A with many years’ experience in training within the 12volt industry. Bryan is at the forefront when it comes to the installation techniques, audio tuning and audio integration. He has industry contacts with the leading suppliers of Audio integration products from companies like Audison, and Rockford Fosgate. These key relationships help assist Bryan in this ever changing industry, allowing him to teach the attendees about the latest solutions available.

After the huge success of CAM’s 2011 installer training courses the challenge of organising and running a 2012 CAM Mobile Solution Installer Boot Camp was virtually assured and the three venues required to service over 85 CAM members throughout Australia were chosen.

The first of these boot camps was held at Maroochy Car Sound on the sunshine coast Queensland over a three day period then duplicated in Melbourne at AZ Trading (the Australian headquarters for Rockford Fosgate) four days later. Grateful thanks go out to the guys at AZ for making their superb venue available for CAM to use for the Victorian training course. The final course was held the following week over in Perth, Western Australia at Alberts Car Stereo- Myaree.

Day One

The day kicked off strong with the morning session focussing on Subwoofer Enclosure Design, looking into the benefits of constructing the correct subwoofer enclosure, understanding subwoofer specifications and how to get the best result for our customer.

Attendees looked at the subwoofer theory and the most advanced subwoofer programs such as TERM PRO and the benefits in using programs like this.

Topics covered were “EBP” (Efficiency Bandwidth Product), understanding the subwoofers free air resonance and using this figure with the electrical ‘Qes’ of the subwoofer. This equation and theory will help technicians choose the right subwoofer for the customer. Understanding these formulas allows them to work out the best enclosure for the subwoofer and whether it will be suited to a sealed or vented enclosure.

Subwoofer optimisation was discussed. This involved selecting the best location in a vehicle for the subwoofer, the process involved to achieve this result and why this is important before beginning an installation. Attendees explored the different tuning frequencies and impedance that a subwoofer has when it is in use and the effect this has on the operation of an amplifier. All this information is the key to producing a better outcome for the customer.

In the afternoon session Bryan was in full swing with Router techniques using Mobile Solutions smart templates and how the simple process on how to construct a perfect circle. This also involved learning how to press out speaker grills by building a jig using the router and then a hydraulic press to stamp out a custom grill, a very cool operation!!

Then it was onto making a fibreglass demo. This was done by using a VW GTI to construct a side mounted rear enclosure. Bryan Schmitt went through the stages of how to ‘prep’ the vehicle and via a step by step process used special techniques (which he had developed and refined over years of experience) to show attendees how to achieve a great result every time.

Day Two

With ‘day one’ gone all attendees were very keen to get into ‘day two’.

Bryan was going to be more hands that day with a back to back live demonstration. The morning session started with the Fukuda Jig. This special tool is a ‘must have’ for any technician who wants to produce a perfect fit dash trim. Different router techniques using ABS plastics were also demonstrated.

Attendees saw techniques and products used to bond acrylics and ABS plastics together as well as looking at different results that can be achieved when using various styles of router bits plus the process behind sanding and buffing acrylic to create a glass like result. All of this process can be completed in a very short time frame. Bryan completed a small project using plexiglass/acrylic by applying a special film to his business logo and creating a professional result in front of our eyes. It was an amazing result in such a short time.

The wood grain paint demo was one of those processes that totally amazed attendees. The fantastic process that achieved such an outstanding result with minimal products was unbelievable. It would be the type of installation technique that would complement a system in a Mercedes Benz or any luxury vehicle.

By now Bryan was ‘on a roll’. Going straight into a centre console application he demonstrated that the unique feature of this project was to produce a curved top to create that ‘console’ shape and a very cool technique and process was used to achieve this. An ‘adjustable curve’ was used to create the console shape, by using a Rabbet bit to rebate the curved section into the side trims of the console.

Bryan took the router demonstration to a whole new level when he constructed a 3D router Jig used to demonstrate a complex Dash fascia. This type of jig could be applied to many applications and made the class think of all the different trims and panels that this method could be used for. Again, Bryan completed this project with a very professional result in a very short time and his dash trim was ninety precent completed using this custom made 3D router jig.

Attendees were soon onto the next project. The next module also utilised the router and upholstery techniques to create rebated slots into a MDF trim. These rebated slots allowed Bryan to cut the carpet and inlay it into these slots, creating a more visually appealing trim by using contrasting carpet colours.

The last project for the day was the construction of a trim which utilised various router techniques using again the Mobile Solutions router smart templates. By adding or stacking some shapes on top of this panel Bryan was able to give this trim some dimension. The main part of the trim was wrapped in carpet. The feature trim (which could be either a speaker grill or amplifier cover) was trimmed in grey vinyl. This custom made mesh trim was a great finishing touch to this custom made panel.

This was a ‘non-stop’ day and each project that Bryan produced taught new unique skills, techniques, processes and ‘tricks of the trade’ to achieve some very outstanding results.

Day Three

The final day was upon us and this was based around audio integration with the unveiling of the highly anticipated Rockford Fosgate Three Sixty.3 processor (only one of the 12 prototypes in the world).

The morning session touched on making ‘custom labour’ profitable, the benefits of a specialized clean workshop and using that workshop as part of the selling process.

Bryan correctly referred to car Franchise Dealer’s workshops as the only other reference point and ‘bench mark’ that customers have as a comparison so their subsequent expectations of the ‘car audio’ workshop standard is governed by that presumption. CAM members need to know the importance this has on their business and should lift the quality of their workshops to at least match the high quality of work that specialists should all aspire to be noted for.

Bryan also spent time explaining the options and solutions that are available and the challenges that are faced when dealing with MOST and CAN BUS wiring which is now becoming quite a common wiring platform throughout many new cars. This knowledge and understanding is a major advantage for all technicians that attended these training courses.

The remainder of the day was devoted to the Rockford Fosgate Three Sixty.3 processor and the Graphical User Interface (or the ‘GUI’).

This processor was very intuitive and very flexible and has been in the development and testing stage for some time. It was good to see that so much time has been spent making sure it ticked all the boxes.

It was great to see that the Rockford engineers even went to the trouble of making the bass and source knob flexible in its functions. All of these adjustments can be configured in the ‘GUI’ so this allows it to suit any installation application or customer’s personal preference.

The new Three sixty.3 also offers an out- board Bluetooth dongle which makes this piece a little more future proof and easier to perform Bluetooth upgrades if they are required. Bryan spent some time going through the operation and different ways that the Three Sixty.3 can be configured which has given all attendee CAM technicians’ valuable understanding of this unique product.

This is one of those ‘must have’ devices for the specialist, especially if you have a vehicle that has an integrated dash. The Three Sixty.3 provides the gateway to expand and the ability to achieve the ultimate system.

The second part of the final day, covered topics such as advance tuning and how to evaluate crest factors. Trouble shooting noise issues was also covered with new and faster techniques to address and overcome these challenges. Time was spent on the automotive charging system determining the system’s current draw. The big plus is that attendees were able to use a vehicle for a live demonstration to evaluate the battery condition and to work out how much current is available.

Bryan showed us a live demonstration of how we can prevent an amplifier from clipping and he broke this down into a step by step process showing how to set the gains and match the levels by using an oscilloscope and a distortion detection meter to maximise an audio systems output. Again these processes that were shown have all given attendees a better skill set to produce better sounding systems and a superior outcome for the customer.

This type of specialist training has been made available only to Car Audio Masters members so that any of the CAM specialist dealers throughout Australia have the capacity to provide a CAM qualified technician with the correct knowledge ready to work on your vehicle.

Look for a CAM member near you and ask for a ‘CAM trained’ qualified technician to work on your car.

Words: Michael Thomsen, Maroochy Car Sound, Director of Car Audio Masters
Images: CAM Training images by John Jovic. For the full pictorial coverage visit AVHub here

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